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Recently when reading the book “Deep Work” by Cal Newport, He discusses two types of approaches that we may have about technology. The first approach Newport calls the Any-Benefit approach. This approach is feeling “justified in using a network tool if you can identify any possible benefit to its use, or anything that might possibly miss out on If you don’t use it.” Essentially if an app/website/game has any kind of benefit at all, it is worth using.

Iphones, PlayStation, and headphones, did any of these electronics make it under your Christmas tree this year?

If you are a parent of a child ages 8 and above, its very likely electronic devices were apart of your gift giving, furthermore it’s very likely you haven’t seen your child since Christmas. Okay hopefully that’s not the case. I realized this when I ate at a restaurant the day after Christmas. I saw several kids exploring their new devices. I even saw one young man become annoyed when what appeared to be his grandmother, was asking him questions. Didn’t grandma see that he had his headphone in, that’s codes for I’m busy!

When meeting with parents one common question is where can the line be drawn? The truth is every person is different. The famous Steve Wozniak said he was a very shy person, and being online helped him be himself. No person knows your child better than you. Whatever you believe is most important for parenting children with electronics, its critical to clearly communicate the boundaries.

Help your child understand the difference between Privilege and Right. As we approach the New Year there is no better time to create a safe plan with your children. Please consider how both you and your child can compromise in the middle. My friend Josie previously posted a blog entitled “iRules” which demonstrates a great example of how to forecast Internet privileges. Teach your teen in 2016!